ECSU is committed to creating a safe environment for students, faculty, and staff. Following the recent discovery of operational problems at the Elizabeth City State University Police Department, the University has taken swift action and committed enormous resources to campus safety.

Former Rocky Mount Police Chief John Manley, a highly experienced law enforcement officer with deep experience in Elizabeth City, is serving as Interim Police Chief. The campus has reached out to the Elizabeth City Police Department, which is now providing officers to help patrol the campus and conduct investigations. And officers from other public university campuses are assisting in daily operations.

With these added resources, the University Police Department is operating at full strength. The police are conducting regular patrols across campus and in student dormitories. In recent weeks, the Department has added additional security cameras, security fencing, and instituted ID checks at campus entrances. Police will have additional resources available for as long as they are needed.

The University has also hired a respected national consultant to review and strengthen crime reporting procedures on campus. Margolis Healy and Associates, an experienced firm specializing in campus safety and security, will conduct a thorough, independent assessment to help us identify any reporting problems and help prevent similar problems in the future.

Crime is a fact of life on every college campus, just as it is in every community. ECSU's highest priority is ensuring that students and faculty can learn and work in a safe and secure environment.

William Smith, Vice Chancellor for Institutional Advancement, is available to answer any questions. He can be reached at wgsmith@ecsu.edu or (252) 335-3966.